ABU DHABI, 14th June, 2018 (WAM) -- The Federal Cabinet has commended the courage and efficiency of the UAE Armed Forces in the battle for the liberation of Hodeidah and its strategic port, under the Saudi-led Coalition at the request of the legitimate Yemeni government.

In a statement it issued on Thursday, the Cabinet said, "At the request of the legitimate Yemeni government, our Armed Forces operating within the Saudi-led Arab Coalition are launching the operation for the liberation of Hodeidah city and its port from the illegitimate grip of the Houthi militias.

"While this operation is based on the request of the legitimate Yemeni government and the UN Security Council’s relevant resolutions, which sanctify the legitimate intervention, it also aims to put an end to the hostile practices perpetrated by the Houthi militias and bring stability to Yemen and its brotherly people.

"The operation also seeks to end arbitrary and oppressive practices to determine the course of humanitarian assistance provided to the Yemeni people and prevent smuggling of weapons, which prolong the war. These operations aim to increase chances for reaching a political solution to the Yemeni crisis by changing the reality on the ground.

"The UAE reiterates its complete support for UN’s efforts in this respect and confirms its full commitment to the rules of international law and the international humanitarian law. Towards this end, the UAE has taken the necessary measures to respond to any potential risks that could result from these operations. The Command of Arab Coalition gives top priority to the humanitarian issue by preparing contingency plans to address any temporary effects from the liberation of Hodeidah port.

"The UAE also emphasises that it is seeking within the Saudi-led Arab Coalition to restore stability and security to Yemen and its brotherly people. On this occasion, the Cabinet highly commends the gallantry and efficiency of our Armed Forces in carrying out this noble mission in support of legitimacy in Yemen and in contribution to efforts to consolidate pillars of stability in the region.''